By George Ward
Leased Proof-of-Stake (LPoS) is a subset of the Proof-of-Stake (PoS) system aimed at bolstering mining capabilities, mitigating inherent flaws in Proof-of-Work (PoW), and refining other PoS iterations like Delegated Proof-of-Stake (DPoS). This guide explores the core concepts of LPOS, including its features, benefits, and other innovative alternatives.
Understanding The Core Concepts Of LPoS
Proof-of-Stake (PoS) is a pivotal element in blockchain consensus, where validators stake cryptocurrency to create and validate transaction blocks. Typically, validators stake more to heighten their chances of block generation.
Leased Proof-of-Stake (LPoS) enables token holders without technical expertise or substantial funds to allow validator node operators to utilize their tokens for block generation purposes, increasing the block creation odds and receiving a portion of the validator’s transaction fee. In an LPoS framework, token holders can lease their stake or operate a full node.
Nodes with more tokens at stake are more likely to be selected to generate a new block. LPoS empowers users to enjoy mining benefits without active involvement.
How To Operate A LPoS System
In the LPoS operation, the higher the stakes, the higher the reward chances. Below are the steps to its process.
Generate a Lease Transaction: Token-holders can lend coins to a node, indicating the quantity and recipient address and retaining the flexibility to revoke the lease at their discretion.
Wait for Block Generation: Leased funds pool in a node, boosting chances for the next block allocation.
Consensus Participation: LPoS permits leasers to partake in consensus, favoring larger nodes in generating the next block.
Generate Blocks: Winning nodes validate transactions, formulate blocks, and earn rewards through transaction fees.
Share Rewards: Node operators allocate rewards to leasers based on investment. Higher stakers earn more returns.
Leased tokens remain under the leaser’s control and never leave their hardware wallet. The holder merely links selected node(s) without actual token transfer.
No party, including the holder, can trade or transfer the tokens. Their use is restricted to transactions or spending after lease cancellation.
Key Features Of Leased Proof-of-Stake (LPoS)
Besides rewards and scalability, LPoS also offers several unique features:
Balancing Leasing
A key attribute of LPoS is balance leasing. Leased tokens remain under the holder’s ownership and cannot be traded or transferred. This unique feature allows users to lease tokens from cold storage or wallets, providing flexibility and security.
Decentralization
LPoS introduces a decentralized approach to reward distribution. Unlike traditional mining pools, LPoS divides rewards based on the staked amount, eliminating the need for a centralized entity. This peer-to-peer protocol prevents third-party intervention, enhancing the democratic nature of the process.
Unpredictable Block Generation
LPoS ensures that the next block generator cannot be predicted, creating a level playing field for participants. While a node’s economic stake size influences its chances of generating the next block, the process remains unpredictable, promoting fairness and equal opportunity.
Fixed Tokens
Unlike some mining mechanisms, LPoS does not introduce additional tokens. The system exclusively allows token leasing, maintaining stability in token supply. This characteristic sets LPoS apart and contributes to its unique value proposition.
LPoS And Blockchain Validation
Leased Proof-of-Stake (LPoS) validates cryptocurrency transactions within a blockchain network. It employs nodes or network devices to verify and validate these transactions, using computational randomness based on the node’s financial stake.
The age and size of the stake serve as primary determinants in selecting the best-suited node for validation. The age of staked tokens holds significant weight in LPoS validation.
Tokens left unused on the platform for an extended period can be chosen to validate the next transaction, incentivizing long-term participation. Additionally, a more significant stake increases the chances of being selected to validate transactions, reflecting participants’ economic influence and commitment to the LPoS ecosystem.
Efficiency Comparison
LPoS represents a paradigm shift from the resource-intensive Proof-of-Work (PoW) model. It leverages passive cryptocurrency deposits, minimizing the need for specialized mining hardware.
This efficiency enhancement positions LPoS as a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional mining methods. Two prominent blockchains employing LPoS are Waves and Nix.
Waves utilize LPoS to verify the blockchain state by allowing users to lease tokens for node generation.
Benefits Of Leased Proof-of-Stake (LPoS)
Leased Proof-of-Stake (LPoS) offers several benefits. It enables passive investment, letting participants earn rewards without active block generation.
LPoS also promotes inclusivity with a reasonable minimum investment requirement, allowing individuals with fewer resources to lease tokens and unlock rewards. In addition, it boosts reward chances for nodes with the largest stake, reinforcing network security.
Participants maintain complete control over their leased tokens, minimizing risks. Moreover, LPoS doesn’t demand specialized mining hardware, reducing entry barriers for wider blockchain validation and rewards participation.